A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Hydra vs. Corfu for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Hydra or Corfu?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Hydra or Corfu? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a picturesque, charming, and accessible island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Corfu

Corfu is a breathtaking, striking, and relaxing island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hydra and Corfu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Corfu?

Both Corfu and Hydra have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Corfu attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Corfu is famous for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

How is Hydra different from Corfu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Corfu and Hydra. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hydra or Corfu?

Hydra is a great island for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hydra can be an interesting and educational experience. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Hydra or Corfu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Corfu is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Nightlife?

Corfu is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Corfu know how to have a good time. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Resorts?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Corfu is a great choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Beaches?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Corfu. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for its Old Town?

Hydra is a great island for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Hydra to see the historical old town. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Hiking?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Corfu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Corfu?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Corfu and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Families?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Corfu is a very family-friendly destination. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hydra is very family-friendly. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Corfu make for a fantastic place to visit.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

For those traveling as a couple, Corfu has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Corfu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Corfu is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Corfu. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Corfu a more walkable city?

Hydra is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Hydra is a very easy island to get around on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Corfu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Corfu or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Corfu?

Both Hydra and Corfu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Hydra. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 5-7 days is enough time in Corfu.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Hydra. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Corfu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Corfu than Hydra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Corfu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu than Hydra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Corfu.

One day in Hydra or Corfu?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Corfu, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this stunning destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hydra or Corfu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hydra or Corfu?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Corfu is a fun place to experience. In Corfu, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hydra or Corfu?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Corfu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, and The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Corfu, we can see that Corfu is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hydra Expensive? and Is Corfu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Corfu?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra and Corfu, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Hydra or Corfu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hydra or Corfu in the Summer?

Both Corfu and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Corfu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Corfu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Corfu averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Corfu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Corfu. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 358 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Corfu. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Corfu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Corfu. Many visitors come to Hydra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Corfu. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Corfu fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Corfu during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Corfu receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Corfu. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Corfu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Corfu. Most visitors come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Corfu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Corfu in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Corfu fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Corfu. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 112 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Corfu. Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Corfu. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Corfu in the Spring?

Both Corfu and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Corfu this time of year.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Corfu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Corfu averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Corfu during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 195 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Corfu. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Corfu and Hydra